Shloka 1.17.19

सप्तदशः सर्गः — देवसंवादः तथा वानर-ऋक्ष-उत्पत्तिः (Divine Council and the Generation of Vanara Allies)

Devanagari script

गोलाङ्गूलीषु चोत्पन्ना: केचित्सम्मतविक्रमा:।ऋक्षीषु च तथा जाता वानरा: किन्नरीषु च।।।।

Transliteration

satyasandhasya vīrasya sarveṣāṁ no hitaiṣiṇaḥ |

viṣṇoḥ sahāyān balinaḥ sṛjadhvaṁ kāmarūpiṇaḥ ||

Translation

Create strong companions for Viṣṇu—steadfast in truth, heroic, and intent on the welfare of all—companions who can assume forms at will.

Context

Some monkeys with acknowledged, valour were born to female monkeys with tails Similarly some other monkeys were born to female bears and female kinnaras.

Characters & Entities

• Viṣṇu

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

Dharma is upheld through truthful commitment (satya-sandha) and benevolent protection: power is to be created and used in service of universal welfare, not domination.

What is the narrative situation?

The gods initiate the creation of extraordinary allies to support Viṣṇu’s earthly mission (later manifest as Rāma’s cause), ensuring that righteousness has effective assistance.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Satya (truthfulness/steadfastness to vows) and hita (benevolence): Viṣṇu/Rāma is portrayed as unwavering in promise and committed to the good of all.